Published 10:46 IST, October 26th 2019
Narak Chaturdashi: All you need to know about this Diwali day
Narak Chaturdashi is observed on the 14th day of the Indian calendar. Read more about the importance of the day and rituals performed on this day for Diwali.
Diwali is one of the most prominent festivals celebrated in India. The festival of lights often brings together families for the celebration of this festival. It is a 5-day festival starting from Dhanteras and then Narak Chaturdashi, Laxmipujan, Padwa and Bhai Dooj. Each day of the festival has its own significance and history. Dhanteras is celebrated to value the wealth in our lives. Read more about what is Narak Chaturdashi and its importance.
Narak Chaturdashi – Significance and Rituals
What is Narak Chaturdashi?
Narak Chaturdashi is observed on the 14th day of the Indian calendar, which is in the month of Ashwin. It is celebrated to eliminate the evil and idleness from the lives of people. Due to an ancient tale, Narak Chaturdashi is now celebrated to become free from all the sins one has committed and also to avoid going to Hell.
Rituals
The most important ritual performed on this day is the early morning bath. People wake up early in the morning, before sunrise, apply a special body scrub to their body and take a bath. The scrub is made up of various ingredients including til oil, herbs, flowers and some other crucial elements. The ritual is called Abhyanga Snan. It is said that the one who fails to do this ritual goes to hell. It is also observed as Kali Chaudas, Choti Diwali, Roop Chaturdashi or Roop Chaudas.
Importance
Narak Chaturdashi is celebrated every year by worshipping the Goddess Kali who killed the demon Narakasura. That is why it also popularly known as Kali Chaudas. This Puja is offered to eliminate the laziness and evils from one’s life in order to bring in a brighter light. After the ritual, people often wear new clothing, offer Puja and enjoy Diwali delicacies with their family. They also light oil diyas all over the house and burn some firecrackers in the evening.
Updated 13:12 IST, October 26th 2019